VILLA TO RETAIN COUTINHO

Aston Villa are hopeful of securing a deal with Barcelona to keep Philippe Coutinho on a permanent basis. The former Liverpool playmaker joined Steven Gerrard’s side on loan in January with a 33-million pound option to buy, but it is understood that Villa are confident they can secure his services for far less. The Spanish giants are keen to offload the 29-year-old as they look to reduce their wage bill before the next La Liga season.